What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
preternatural
Example
The athlete's preternatural strength allowed him to lift the heavy weights with ease. [preternatural: adjective]
Example
The preternatural silence in the forest was eerie and unsettling. [preternatural: noun]
supernatural
Example
The ghostly apparition was believed to be a supernatural entity. [supernatural: adjective]
Example
The supernatural powers of the sorcerer were feared by many. [supernatural: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Supernatural is more commonly used than preternatural in everyday language. Supernatural is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while preternatural is less common and refers to a more specific type of phenomenon.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between preternatural and supernatural?
Both preternatural and supernatural can be used in formal and informal contexts, but preternatural may be perceived as more formal due to its less common usage.
